Recorders are part of the music curriculum in grades 4, 5, and 6. They are a great learning tool for lots of concepts we cover throughout the year. Students are required to bring their recorders as well as their folder of recorder music to class every week on the day that they have music.

Those students that practice at home progress more quickly than those who don't. Please encourage your child to practice at home for homework.

Recorders may be purchased at school or at a music store. If you choose to purchase one at school, the cost is $3.25. Checks should be made out to CTE PTA. If you choose to purchase one on your own, be sure you are purchasing an instrument, not a toy. If it does not match pitch with the recorders we use in the classroom, it cannot be used.

If a student forgets their recorder, he is still required to do the in-class work. If a student forgets his or her recorder 4 or more times, he is required to write a letter to his parents or guardians during recess, take it home to have it signed, and return it to school the next day along with his recorder.

RECORDER KARATE BELTS
Each student has the opportunity to earn belts in music class. In order to earn a belt, he or she must successfully play the assigned piece of music. Students are encouraged to practice at home in order to earn the belts by the end of the year recorder concert. Fourth graders will be able to earn the white, yellow, and orange belts. Fifth graders will be able to earn up to the blue belt. Sixth graders will be able to earn up to the black belt. See the Class Assignments to know which piece of music corresponds with which belt. The songs are on their classroom computers so they may listen to these to work ahead. Students also set individual goals on earning their belts as part of their leadership notebooks for our Leader In Me program as well as track their goals each year.